Unstable. Not sure exactly how high your willing to go, but don't settle for a cheapy. If you have to wait a little longer, do it. I have a hobart 175 MIG I got for $500 through one of my jobs. Works great and $500 clams isn't to shabby. The head welder at the shop reccomended it to me and it work well for everything I've done so far.

I agree you'll be dissatisfied pretty quickly with a cheap one, after you get one you'll find all sorts of stuff to use it on that you aren't even considering now. I've got a 225 amp mig and I've had it since 1984 when it was new, haven't had to do anything but buy wire and gas. $500 is a pretty common figure around here for a good used one too.Just a word of caution, I would avoid one that has seen a lot of service in a body shop, the ones I've seen have gotten vapors and dust in them and I can't help believing that will shorten its' life considerably.

I had the spot and stitch guns- I hated them! Sloppy and messy- go with the wire feed- you'll save time, money and frustration in the long run. (also with a better welder you'll experimant more and become more independent- a thing we ALL will need to be these days!!!) Plus you can weld on other guys stuff and make a few $$$$$

I have a hobart handler, (150 amp) and I have got to say that its the best welder I have ever used. Lincoln welders are easy to fine adjust, making it easier for beginers. They are pretty good welders. Miller welders are good welders, they are about as equally good as hobart, most not as easy to use as lincoln. Century makes one that is good for non profesional type use. good for occaisional use. All makers have a 110vlt model that is just right for welding sheet metal. I have used all 4 brands and prefer the hobart.

Ive had lots of welders...if I close my eyes I can remember my first welder, mamma says its my magic welder she sayes it would take me anywhere.

seriously Ive had a few and used a few more including hobart miller linclon daytona and the list goes on.....if your looking for an inexpensive good all around welder..that can handle the thin stuff as well as occasional thick things I might suggest anyone of the brands mentioned in the above posts, but if you want a great welder for a good price i recommend a clarke 150 turbo..

Keep in mind that a Hobart is a Miller in disguise. I would suggest a 220, but I 110 will work well. With a 110 you have to make sure that every thing is squeeky clean, where as with a 220 you can be just a little less careful. I have a 110 Hobart and it works really well on sheet metal...

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